matters of the heart.

One Australian every 26 minutes passes from a heart attack.

Read that again and really let the words resonate.

One Australian every 26 minutes passes from a heart attack.

March 10th of 2014, my loving, wonderful, fit Dad became part of that statistic.
It was sudden, shocking and he was given no second chance. My Dad was a fanatic cyclist, he discovered his passion was of a two wheeled kind. He ate healthily, hardly drank and didn't smoke. He was the healthiest he had ever felt. We should have celebrated my Dad's 53rd birthday last year, and we never got the chance.
No goodbyes, just a constant heart ache.
At the time of my Dad's passing, he had just finished a race. He actually had just moved up a race grade- a goal which he had been trying for a long time. Dad was elated, and we were told one of the last things he said was "I did it! I finished!" with the biggest smile on his face.

One Australian every 26 minutes is one too many. Heart health is important and more awareness should be raised. Before losing my Dad I had no idea the statistic was so shocking. And that is what it is- shocking.

I spent the month of October 2014 cycling on my Dad's exercise bike in the hope of raising money for the National Heart Foundation. The amount of support, love and donations I received from family, friends and people I had not even met was mind-blowing to say the least. I am still so thankful for everybody who donated and offered encouraging words.

Australia's number one killer is heart disease. Heart health and awareness, regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks and living a healthy lifestyle are so, so, so important.
As is The National Heart Foundation. For more information about healthy hearts you can visit http://www.heartfoundation.org.au/Pages/default.aspx or call 1300 36 27 87.

My Dad was never given a second chance. He was healthy, he exercised, he ate well yet heart disease still took him from us. My Dad was living such a full life, he still had so much living left to do. If losing my Dad and writing this post creates heart health awareness, any awareness at all I would be grateful.

I urge you not to take your heart and your health for granted.
Stop smoking. Eat healthily. Exercise. Have regular cholesterol and blood pressure tests.

We are only given one heart, start living like you appreciate that.

 

Thinking of you, always x

panoramic goodness 5706 miles away.

quiet days.

Alas, I haven't posted in quite some while - the last being just before Valentine's Day. Slap on the wrist for me. I feel as if I have been neck deep in assignments (who want's to plan a two week menu for a childcare centre - one in which incorporates five different cultures AND lists each individual recipe - not me that's for sure), waist deep in small children (this sounds worse than it is - what I mean is that I have been working a fair bit) and not to mention jetting off on a mini holiday to the Sunshine Coast with my better half. 2013 is flying by so fast I have barely had time to catch my breath. I'm one First Aid Course away from completing my Cert 3 in Children's Services and then it will be on to my Diploma (A Diploma in Journalism and Children's Services- let's mix things up a little bit hey?) But yesterday was a big wake up call- a day to stop and finally catch my breath and today has been a welcome day to reflect on that. 

Last week a good friend of Taylor's tragically passed away. It was unexpected and breathtakingly painful for all that knew this person. He was only 20 years old and in the prime of his life. This person deserved to have a future, to grow old and make a thousand more memories but sadly he didn't get this chance. Yesterday was the funeral. I knew this person briefly and it was an awful day for me, so putting myself into the position of my boyfriend, and others that shared close bonds with this person is unimaginable. There was an unfathomable amount of grief in the air as tears flowed and memories were shared. 

 It's funny, thinking back to yesterday a certain quote pops into my head. You don't appreciate what you have until it's gone. And it's true. Life's too short not to appreciate the beautiful world spinning alongside of you. Life is too short not to appreciate the people that make you laugh and the moments that take your breath away. It's terribly cliched but it's so spot-on-the money true. Learn to let go, don't leave any important words unsaid. Hug the ones you love. Say I love you. Learn something new. Learn to love yourself. 

No matter your creed, religion or culture view each morning that you wake up and open your eyes as a blessing. 

follow away :-)

love is for the lucky and the brave.

when someone else's happiness is your happiness, that is love.

There is something so thrilling about giving someone a gift. Hey, don't get me wrong I love a gift as much as the next girl but there is something a little special about the moment you hand over your carefully wrapped, well thought out something to that someone you care about. It's as if you are as excited to give the gift as they are to receive it. Then there's the suspense, the killer wait as you try to figure if they like it. The warm, fuzzy feeling that comes after the suspense is the deal-sealer- there's something nice about making someone happy in such a self centred world (at times).

And with good old Valentines Day coming up, I'm starting to get excited. I love giving unusual gifts, something that special someone didn't quite expect but is exactly what they needed in that moment of time. And to all of those people hating on Valentines Day, to them I say suck it up. Sure, I will admit Valentines Day has been commercialised to the point of no return but is there really something so wrong about a day where people celebrate their love or happiness together? If you answered yes to that, please take the lemon out of your mouth and stop being so sour. Albeit, not everyone has a Valentine- and if you don't it doesn't matter! Be happy for those around you who have found happiness or make it your aim that day to make someone you know smile- whether it be a friend, a complete stranger or you mum. And if all else fails, sit down with a packet of Tim Tams and watch all of the Nicholas Sparks movies. On repeat. The world needs more happy days, I say. There really can't be anything negative about a day where the soul purpose is to make each other smile and spread a little happiness. That can't be such a bad thing can it?

sand in my shoes.

Okay, okay I know I always harp on about how much I love to write and how I will one day be a working-bona-fide (read-paid lol) journalist but the end of 2012 and beginning of 2013 has been a welcome turn of events for me. I quit my retail job (having been there for a longgggg five years- I am pretty nifty at folding jeans by now) and applied for a job at my local preschool. A change is as good as a holiday, right? Right! Having no experience handling little human beings I prepared myself for a massive leap, headfirst into the unknown. And I am happy to say I'm loving it! Each day spent there brings new things, new personalities, new bonding experiences and new challenges. And a whole lot of sand brought home in my Nikes. Emphasis on challenges. I am learning patience, negotiating skills, how to listen, mediate and change a dirty nappy all at the same time. I have only been working with tiny tots for a couple of months or so and one of the biggest lessons I have learnt so far has to do with credit. And credit paid to where credit is due. I think the amount of hard work that goes on behind a preschools closed doors is unbeknown to anybody and everybody who doesn't work in the childcare industry. I take my hats off to mothers working at preschools around the world who then go home and look after their own children. This is no sit-on-your-bum office job, preschools are full on! These women (and sometimes men) are often forgotten amongst the celebrities, sports personalities, police, doctors, teachers and firefighters. And I am proud to say I amongst a team of inspiring women who are literally raising our future. I was going to say excuse the pun possums, but I won't. Because that is a true fact. I still remember my preschool teachers Marilyn who had the softest, whitest skin and Angie who had the thickest and curliest hair. These two ladies shaped a big part of my early years and I still have fond memories of the time I spent as a tiny human at Pegasus Preschool.

So here's a big thank you to all the preschool teachers out there- you are appreciated!

just a little taste of Aloha.

Kisses in Waikiki

More kisses from the world's only Wholphin

Mr Matsumoto Shaved Ice & Pipeline

Happy 21st breakfast Hula Pie

to wed in Lanikai.

I actually logged onto the computer this morning to consult that faithful epitome of knowlege- le Google. I meant to simply google 'Beginners spin classes to do at home', find said video, hop off the computer and onto the bike. That was half an hour ago... I could lie and say I am on the bike and somehow writing this whilst peddling but that would be, well a big fat lie. I found myself logging onto my Pinterest and searching 'Streamer tassles'. No really. How my mind processed Spin Classes to Streamer Tassles beats me, such a complex space going on above my shoulders... ahem.

And now I find myself logged onto JAPR blogging about God knows what. I want to direct this post to a wedding my lovely mum somehow found on the internet, through hours of instagram stalking lucky folks that reside in Hawaii (our new favourite hobby- Hawaii blog post to come :-) ). The happy couple (Aimee and Sean) live in Oahu, HI and hosted an intimate, island ceremony and reception. I've included the video link and it's honestly worth a watch -  http://vimeo.com/54015634. I wouldn't know the couple from a bar of soap but watching them wed brought tears to my eyes, big softy that I am. The ceremony and reception were held in a Lanikai backyard and the DIY touches added an unbeatable beauty (hence my obssession with streamer tassles). The ceremony and reception were so full of light and happiness and so, so heartfelt- it's hard to watch the vid and not your wish you were a guest. Below photo to credit to Aimee's own instagram- aimeesan

 

salty air & sunkissed skin.

sentiments.

Better late than never - time to get sentimental- 2012 see ya later! What a year you were and you are certainly deserving of a little thanks.

Thank you for showing me that I am my own person with my own opinions. Thank you for teaching me how to welcome change. Thank you for the opportunities and the complete change in direction. Thank you for changing my mind, over and over, and over again. Thank you for the times I laughed so hard I cried, gasping for breath and clutching my sides. Thank you for the late nights, early mornings and the discovery of new places. Thank you for the challenges, the difficult times I did not want to face. Thank you for the tears I cried and the lessons that came along with them. Thank you for the beautiful people surrounding me, who constantly lift me up. Thank you for another year with my soul mate and for the happiness he brings. Thank you for my family, for bringing us closer than we have ever been. Thank you for giving me something to aim for and for showing me where I want to be. Thank you for the supressed smiles, the cold shivers and the meant-to-be moments.

Here's to the year that was.

from where I'd rather be.

keep at it!

It's 6am. Cue your alarms shrill (and dreaded) tones. You curse the interruption of your blissful slumber and will yourself back asleep. Instead of springing out of bed 'up and at em' style, you snuggle into that warm cocoon of goodness that is your bed. Bright eyed and bushy tailed you are not, the snooze button becomes an all too familiar friend.

Motivation, where art thou?

That cheeky little whats-it always seems to disappear when most needed. Contemplating a morning run? Motivation- nil. Attempt to put in some overtime at work? Motivation- nada. Sticking to a healthy eating plan and saying no to your 22nd piece of chocolate? Forget it, it seems old motivation has better things to do.

Coming into the golden season of summer, reining in and holding onto your motivation can be tricky. Here's some tips to conquer lazy days when things need to be done but you just-can't-be- bothered.

1. Do not procrastinate. The mother of all evils, this 13 letter word is not your friend. Sure, refreshing your facebook page or email inbox makes for a fun time but avoiding what you need to get done ain't helpin', sista! Stay focused and remind yourself why you are doing what you are doing.

2. Give yourself a break. I know, I know, you are thinking 'I am big-fat hypocrite who has no idea what she is going on about because clearly I just said the oppositite of rule number one'. Keep in mind there is a difference between procrastinating (read- laaaazy) and taking 15 or so minutes to clear your head, regroup and refocus. This tip is particulary important during a long day at work, studying for an exam or even exercise plans.

3. Reward yourself. Set a reasonable time limit and goal as to what you want to achieve and once said goal has been achieved, treat yourself. After a gruelling workout indulge in some downtime with some sweeties. Finished your exams or study? Quit thinking about it, go out and have some fun. Setting goals (and rewards) keeps motivation in check and provides an incentive to achieve said goals.

4. Listen to music. Struggling with a work out or getting up early in the morning? Pump some of your favourite tunes. Keep them upbeat and it is that easy. Really, it is.

5. Make a list. I am a listmaker. There is something so satisfying as to ticking off each item once it is complete. If your list is overwhelming and the enormity frightens you a little, resolve to complete one item at a time. By the time you reach the end of your list you will have surprised even yourself with how much you have completed.

BPF- beauty prods forever

Props to all those beauty cupboards out there. Bravo, thank you for making me look somewhat human each morning.

This post is dedicated to all those little gems who make life as a female a little bit easier.

In terms of bases, let's start with first. First base equals fresh skin. And for this I love Sukin. The foaming cleanser, moisturiser, night cream and toner all take pride of place in my bathroom cupboard. They aren't harsh on skin and free from all those nasties that are responsible for sensitive skin and breakouts. You want alcohol, sulphate and parabens? Forget it, you're barking up the wrong tree. Sukin organics are just that- organic and this is why they love my skin. And my skin loves them. The Australian brand also offers a sensitive range and their rose hip oil should be a prerequisite in your nightly beauty routine. Have a look at their affordable range here http://www.sukinorganics.com/. Your skin will love you forever and reward you by staying plump, fresh, clear and very well behaved.

Second on my list of cant-live-withouts is Loreal Paris Lumi Magique foundation. I recently switched foundations and Loreal's newest wonder has become a fast favourite. It promises flawless skin using liquid light technology and while I am not sure I am being 'lit from within' my skin sure does look nice after a meeting with Lumi Magique. The brand offers a range suitable for most skin tones and rose sand matches mine perfectly. (In case you were wondering, which I know you were).

Onto third base now. My, my isn't this a quickie. Short and sweet, I like your style. But what shouldn't be short is your lashes, the eyes are window to the soul so spending a little extra effort on your lashes is worthwhile. I have recently become addicted to eyelash extensions (your local beautician should be able to help you out for around $80 first visit. In-fills are around $45 a pop). Not to be confused with false lashes, eye lash extensions are attached individually (and somewhat painstakingly) to each individual lash. The end result? Natural, full and long lashes. These little beauties will cut down your getting ready time by half. Smudged mascara? A thing of the past. "As much as I love you mascara, I just don't need you in my life anymore. I've met someone else who fulfils my needs." This is what you will say. And if you do happen to pop a little on = super-dooper-supermodel lashes there you go making everybody stare. NB- Oil free cleansers are best for eyelash extensions (the oil in regular make-up removers loosens the glue), Neutrogena does a great oil-free eye make-up remover.  

And there you have it- my BPF's.

N.B- This is only a short list, I could go on for days and days on essential beauty prods. But I won't. You're welcome.

Good day sir!

I have something to admit... Wait, It seems this blog is somewhat of my confessional and whoever happens to read this is my priest. Well done. I digress so now I will confess. I have a penchant for dressing like a boy. I never did go through my tomboy stage during adolescence so here we are nearly 21 years old and I have discovered a love for oversized tees and shirts, skinny jeans and converse. Better late than never, eh?

There is something so appealing about dressing man-style. And fun! And when styled the right way- man style is swoon-worthy. Not to mention comfortable. Eat a big din? No need to suck in, oversized shirt will hide any food baby. Everyone wins. Androgynous dressing can be casual or if needed for evening wear- a tailored white shirt, statement collar necklace, leather skinnies and a pair of brogues (or pumps) can work just as well.

What I wore today- Oversized silk chambray shirt (courtesy of my beautiful Nan), skinnies and fresh white cons. Can you say comfortable? I can. And I will. Because I am very comfortable, thank you.

anybody out there?

The funny thing about blogging is that sometimes (okay, let's be honest) most of the time it feels like you are writingto yourself.  And you probably are. Just like I am right now. Ahhh. But every now and then someone might happen to stumble across your blog and have a read. Hey, they might even like what you're writing. And that is a good feeling. And if they don't? Freedom of expression, I say! 

 This writing biz is a tricky one to crack, the huge amount of people in the exact same position as me is phenonemal. People often wonder why I have picked such a hard industry to make my mark in but challenge is a wonderful thing. And that experience I have had; those few weeks and precious insights into my favourite publications make for some great memories and bring me that one step closer to getting what I want out of this life.

pin it!

Although I feel like an old hand at Facebook, blogging, tumblr  and instagram (old hand- ha! More like addict) Pinterest is a concept I was yet to grasp. Until today. What a fantastic way to get a little inspiration, find a new recipe, nail trend or home decor idea. And even better- you can 'pin' whatever tickles your fancy ensuring those great steps to a messy topknot or flatter bum are never forgotten. Fresh pinner addict at your service! Look me up, throw me a follow- I promise I'll follow back!